A Family Visa allows expatriates living in the UAE to sponsor their family members (spouse, children, and sometimes parents) to live with them in the country. The family visa is an essential document for those who wish to reunite with their families while residing in the UAE.
New Family Visa
A new family visa is issued when a resident or citizen of the UAE wishes to sponsor their family members for the first time. The process typically involves submitting an application to the appropriate UAE authorities and providing the necessary documents.
Eligibility Criteria for New Family Visa
Sponsor Requirements:
The sponsor must be a UAE resident with a valid residency visa or a UAE citizen.
The sponsor must have a minimum salary requirement to support their family. This varies depending on the emirate and family size:
In Dubai, the minimum salary requirement for a sponsor is typically AED 4,000 to AED 5,000 per month (plus accommodation).
Family Members Eligible for Sponsorship:
Spouse:
A legal partner recognized by the UAE government.
Children:
Usually under the age of 18. Sons over 18 may be eligible if they are students, depending on the sponsor’s profession and salary.
Parents:
In some cases, expatriates can sponsor their parents if they meet the income requirements.
Medical Insurance:
The sponsor must provide health insurance coverage for family members, depending on the emirate.
Documents Required for New Family Visa
Passport Copies:
Copies of the sponsor’s and family member’s passports.
The sponsor’s UAE residency visa and Emirates ID.
Marriage Certificate:
A legal marriage certificate if sponsoring a spouse (attested if issued outside the UAE).
Birth Certificate(s):
Birth certificates for children, showing the relationship to the sponsor.
Salary Certificate:
A letter from the sponsor’s employer confirming the monthly salary, which must meet the minimum salary requirement.
Accommodation Proof:
Proof of adequate accommodation in the UAE (e.g., tenancy contract or title deed).
Medical Insurance:
Proof of health insurance coverage for family members (if required by the emirate).
Passport-sized Photos:
Recent passport-sized photographs of family members applying for the visa.
Emirates ID Application:
Each family member must apply for an Emirates ID.
Visa Application Forms:
Completed forms for visa issuance from the relevant immigration authorities.
Process for New Family Visa
Sponsorship Approval:
The sponsor’s residency status and salary will be checked by the UAE authorities. Approval is granted if the sponsor meets the requirements.
Medical Examination:
Family members (especially adults) must undergo a medical test in a government-approved medical center.
Visa Application Submission:
Submit all required documents to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the immigration department, or an authorized typing center.
Entry Permit:
If the family members are outside the UAE, an entry permit is issued first. This allows the family members to enter the country.
Visa Stamping:
Once the family enters the UAE, the family visa stamp will be added to their passports at the immigration office.
Emirates ID Application:
Each family member must apply for an Emirates ID after the visa is approved and stamped.
Family Visa Renewal
Family visas are typically issued for 1 or 2 years, and they need to be renewed upon expiration. The family visa renewal process is similar to applying for a new family visa, though it is generally simpler.
Eligibility for Family Visa Renewal
Sponsor Status:
The sponsor’s residency visa must be valid.
Minimum Salary Requirements:
The sponsor must continue to meet the minimum salary requirement to renew the family visa.
Medical Insurance:
The sponsor must ensure that family members continue to have valid medical insurance.
Accommodation Proof:
The sponsor must have proof of accommodation for the duration of the renewal period.
Documents Required for Family Visa Renewal
Passport Copies:
Copies of the sponsor's and family members' passports and residency visas.
Medical Certificate:
If required, family members must undergo a medical check-up for visa renewal.
Salary Certificate:
Updated proof of income to meet the minimum salary requirement.
Tenancy Contract:
Proof of continued residence in the UAE (updated tenancy contract or title deed).
Emirates ID Renewal:
Emirates IDs for family members should be renewed if necessary.
Other Supporting Documents:
Additional documents may be required depending on the specific situation.
Process for Family Visa Renewal
Prepare Required Documents:
Gather the documents needed for visa renewal, such as salary certificates and medical certificates.
Submit Application for Renewal:
Submit the family visa renewal application through the GDRFA or a typing center.
Medical Test and Health Insurance:
Family members may need to undergo a medical examination, and health insurance must be updated if applicable.
Visa Issuance and Stamping:
After processing, the renewed visa will be stamped in the passport of each family member.
Emirates ID Renewal:
Renew the Emirates ID of each family member.